{"id":78780,"date":"2017-11-22T18:45:22","date_gmt":"2017-11-22T23:45:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fluentu.com\/blog\/learn\/korean-idioms\/"},"modified":"2025-06-09T12:19:48","modified_gmt":"2025-06-09T16:19:48","slug":"korean-idioms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fluentu.com\/blog\/korean\/korean-idioms\/","title":{"rendered":"51 Korean Idioms + Cultural Notes"},"content":{"rendered":"

While watching Korean dramas<\/a>, listening to K-Pop<\/a> or traveling in Korea<\/a>, and you might have noticed that one or two phrases you hear sound… odd.<\/p>\n

Chances are you’ve stumbled upon a Korean idiom.<\/p>\n

Idioms are strange and fun expressions<\/a> that every language uses, but your textbooks<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Korean translator apps<\/a> might not cover them. That being said, here’s a list of 51 Korean idioms you’ll want to know to upgrade your knowledge of the language.<\/p>\n

[fluentu-toc]
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1. \uadf8\ub9bc\uc758 \ub5a1\u00a0\u2014 Rice cake in a picture<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> something you desire, but can’t have or afford<\/p>\n

Rice cakes, \ub5a1<\/strong>, are\u00a0staples of Korean cuisine<\/a>. They can be eaten as a snack but are usually consumed in more formal or celebratory affairs. Culturally, they’re associated with fortune and generosity.<\/p>\n

Just like a rice cake in a picture, this idiom illustrates the inability to snatch up and eat a similarly delectable item\u2014whether it’s a new computer or a job promotion.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc138\uacc4 \uc5ec\ud589\uc744 \uac00\uace0 \uc2f6\uc9c0\ub9cc \uadf8\ub9bc\uc758 \ub5a1\uc774\uc5d0\uc694<\/strong><\/p>\n

I want to travel the world, but it’s a rice cake in a picture.<\/p>\n

2. \ub208\ucf54 \ub730 \uc0c8 \uc5c6\ub2e4\u00a0\u2014 I don’t have time to open my eyes and nose<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong>\u00a0too busy and have no time to lose<\/p>\n

There are plenty of Korean idioms involving body parts, many of them dealing with one’s physical condition. For example, this idiom suggests that the speaker is so occupied that they don’t even have time to move their eyes or nose.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc219\uc81c\uac00 \ub108\ubb34 \ub9ce\uc544 \ub208\ucf54 \ub730 \uc0c8\uac00 \uc5c6\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

I have so much homework that I can’t open my eyes and nose.<\/p>\n

3. \uac00\uc7ac\ub294 \uac8c \ud3b8\uc774\ub2e4 \u2014 The crayfish sides with the crab<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> those that are similar stay together<\/p>\n

This idiom, which is also a proverb<\/a>, states that a crayfish would instinctively side with a crab because they look similar. The expression suggests that those of similar backgrounds or characteristics tend to agree with each other.<\/p>\n

You can use this idiom in much the same way as its English equivalent, “birds of a feather flock together.”<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uac00\uc7ac\ub294 \uac8c \ud3b8\uc774\ub77c\ub354\ub2c8, \ud68c\uc0ac\uc5d0\uc11c \uadf8 \uc0ac\ub78c\uc740 \uc790\uae30 \ud559\uad50 \ucd9c\uc2e0\ub9cc \uc798 \ud574 \uc918\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

The crayfish sides with the crab, he only cares about his colleagues from the same school.<\/p>\n

4. \uc2dd\uc740 \uc8fd \uba39\uae30\u00a0\u2014 Like eating cold porridge<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong>\u00a0piece of cake<\/p>\n

\uc8fd<\/strong>\u00a0is Korean rice porridge<\/a> made of slow-boiled rice and gets much of its flavor from added salt or ingredients. The bland, watery nature of this dish makes it a popular food to eat when someone is sick. That being said, equating something to eating rice porridge suggests it’s a very simple task.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc2dc\ud5d8\uc774 \ub108\ubb34 \uc26c\uc6cc\uc11c \uc2dd\uc740 \uc8fd \uba39\uae30\uc600\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

The test was so easy that it was like eating cold porridge.<\/p>\n

5. \uaf2c\ub9ac\ub97c \uce5c\ub2e4\/\ud754\ub4e0\ub2e4 \u00a0\u2014 Wagging \/ Shaking tail<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong>\u00a0flattering or enticing another<\/p>\n

You’ve probably seen it before\u2014someone doing their very best to get in another person’s good graces, usually in flirtatious situations. (The resulting display can be quite amusing!) In Korean lingo, this kind of performance is equated to that of an animal eagerly wagging its tail.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8 \uc5ec\uc790\uac00 \uadf8 \ub0a8\uc790\uc5d0\uac8c \uaf2c\ub9ac\ub97c \uccd0\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

The woman is wagging her tail at the man.<\/p>\n

6. \ub208\uc774 \ub192\ub2e4\u00a0\u2014 Eyes are high<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong>\u00a0having high standards or unrealistic expectations<\/p>\n

This idiom is used to refer to someone who possesses standards that border on unreasonable. The person who fits this description is someone whose perception rests on a much higher plane (thus, their “eyes are high”).<\/p>\n

You’ll often find this used in the context of relationships when a person expects far too much from their potential suitor.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc81c \uce5c\uad6c\ub294 \uacb0\ud63c\uc744 \uc548 \ud588\ub294\ub370\uc694. \ub208\uc774 \ub192\uc740 \uac83 \uac19\uc544\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

A friend of mine isn’t married, and I think her eyes are high.\u00a0<\/p>\n

7. \ub208\uc774 \ub4a4\uc9d1\ud78c\ub2e4 \u2014 Eyes are turned upside down<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> to be mad or insane<\/p>\n

Here’s another idiom involving the eyes that paints quite a picture! You can probably think of a time when someone (or you) reached their breaking point and snapped.<\/p>\n

Of course, people’s eyes don’t literally turn upside down when this happens, but the expression does reflect a loss of normality.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub108\ubb34 \ud654\uac00 \ub098\uc11c \ub208\uc774 \ub4a4\uc9d1\ud614\uc5b4\uc694!<\/strong><\/p>\n

I was so mad my eyes turned upside down!<\/p>\n

8. \ubc14\ub78c\uc744 \ub123\ub294\ub2e4 \u2014 To put in wind \/ inflate<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong>\u00a0to pump up, motivate, coax<\/p>\n

This idiom is similar to the English idiom “to put wind in one’s sails.” It’s a common expression that expresses the moment when one is enticed into action\u2014whether it’s because of a stroke of fortune, inspiration or encouragement from another individual.<\/p>\n

However, it doesn’t always have a positive connotation. For example, one can also “put wind” to a ridiculous request to increase the chances of someone doing something they wouldn’t typically do.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc81c \uce5c\uad6c\uac00 \uc601\ud654\uad00\uc5d0 \uac00\uc790\uace0 \ubc14\ub78c\uc744 \ub123\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “My friend is inflating going to the movie theater.” (“My friend is making a big deal about going to the movies.”)<\/p>\n

9. \uc0ac\ucd0c\uc774 \ub545\uc744 \uc0ac\uba74 \ubc30\uac00 \uc544\ud504\ub2e4 \u2014 Stomach hurts<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong>\u00a0to be extremely jealous<\/p>\n

While you can say this phrase to say you have a stomachache, the idiom suggests that you’re envious of another, usually because they lucked into riches or happiness and you haven’t.<\/p>\n

The feeling can be a bit more than just jealousy and often includes a sense of disappointment. The idiom is used when the envied person in particular is someone you know and is close enough to you that seeing their moment of success feels like a punch in the gut.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uce5c\uad6c \uc544\ub4e4\uc774 \uc815\ub9d0 \uc88b\uc740 \ub300\ud559\uc5d0 \ub4e4\uc5b4\uac14\uc5b4. \uc0ac\ucd0c\uc774 \ub545\uc744 \uc0ac\uba74 \ubc30\uac00 \uc544\ud504\ub2e4\ub354\ub2c8 \uc9c4\uc9dc \ubc30\uac00 \uc544\ud504\ub124<\/strong><\/p>\n

My friend’s son got into a really good college. My cousin bought some land and I’m really jealous.<\/p>\n

10. \ud30c\ub9ac\ub97c \ub0a0\ub9ac\ub2e4\u00a0\u2014 Have flies flying around<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> to be in a slump, have no customers<\/p>\n

Flies are commonly known as a blight to any environment, and in the case of this idiom, they’re a sign of misfortune. The phrase is used quite specifically for businesses suffering from a scarcity of clients.<\/p>\n

It’s easy to visualize what this expression is meant to illustrate\u2014an establishment that’s so empty that the bulk of the employee’s work for the day is shooing away flies.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uac00\uac8c\uc5d0 \uc190\ub2d8\uc774 \uc5c6\uc5b4\uc11c \ud30c\ub9ac\ub97c \ub0a0\ub9ac\uace0 \uc788\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

There are no customers in the store, so there are flies flying around.<\/p>\n

11. \uc190\ubc14\ub2e5\uc73c\ub85c \ud558\ub298\uc744 \uac00\ub9b0\ub2e4 \u2014 Trying to cover the sky with your palm<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> the truth cannot be hidden even if you try to cover it up<\/p>\n

According to this saying, no matter how much you try to hide the truth, it will surface eventually.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8\uac74 \uadf8\u11b7\uc138 \uc0ac\ub78c\ub4e4\uc774 \uc54c\uc544\ucc28\ub9b4 \uac70\uc57c. \uc190\ubc14\ub2e5\uc73c\ub85c \ud558\ub298\uc744 \uac00\ub9b4 \uc21c \uc5c6\uc5b4<\/b>\u00a0<\/p>\n

People will find out (the truth) soon. You can’t cover the sky with your palm.<\/p>\n

12. \uace0\ub798 \uc2f8\uc6c0\uc5d0 \uc0c8\uc6b0 \ub4f1 \ud130\uc9c4\ub2e4 \u2014 Shrimp get crushed in a whale fight<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> innocent parties often suffer in conflicts between more powerful entities<\/p>\n

The biggest shrimp in the world, the tiger prawn<\/a>, is approximately 12.99 inches long. Meanwhile, the blue whale is over 100 feet<\/a> long\u2014the size of three school buses.<\/p>\n

Just as a tiny shrimp would be easily crushed in a fight between whales, this expression conveys the notion that powerless individuals often bear the brunt of disputes they have no control over.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub450 \ud68c\uc0ac\uc758 \uacbd\uc7c1\uc73c\ub85c \ub9ce\uc740 \uc791\uc740 \uae30\uc5c5\ub4e4\uc774 \ud53c\ud574\ub97c \ubcf4\ub294\uad6c\ub098. \uace0\ub798 \uc2f8\uc6c0\uc5d0 \uc0c8\uc6b0 \ub4f1 \ud130\uc9c0\ub294 \uac70\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Many small businesses suffer from the competition between the two companies. It’s like shrimp getting crushed in a whale fight.<\/p>\n

13. \ub208\uc5d0 \ubc1f\ud78c\ub2e4 \u2014 Get stepped on by the eyes<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> to worry or miss someone<\/p>\n

This idiom sums up the feeling of thinking about someone all the time\u2014usually because you miss or are worried about them.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc9d1\uc5d0 \ud63c\uc790 \uacc4\uc2e0 \uc6b0\ub9ac \uc5b4\uba38\ub2c8\uac00 \uc790\uafb8 \ub208\uc5d0 \ubc1f\ud600\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

I’m worried about my mother who’s home alone.<\/p>\n

14. \uc190\ubc1c\uc774 \ub9de\uc9c0 \uc54a\ub294\ub2e4 \u2014 Hands and feet don’t match<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> lack of coordination; unable to work together effectively<\/p>\n

Picture two dancers: one is a professional, while the other is a complete beginner. Even if you don’t know anything about dancing, you can easily know which is which, because the professional would have coordinated movements, while the beginner wouldn’t.<\/p>\n

You can use that image to remember the meaning of “hands and feet don’t match.”<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc6b0\ub9ac \ud300\uc740 \uc5b4\uc81c \uacbd\uae30\uc5d0\uc11c \ub108\ubb34 \uc190\ubc1c\uc774 \ub9de\uc9c0 \uc54a\uc544\uc11c \uc9c0\uace0 \ub9d0\uc558\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Our team lost yesterday’s game because our hands and feet didn’t match.<\/p>\n

15. \uac00\ub294 \ub0a0\uc774 \uc7a5\ub0a0\uc774\ub2e4 \u2014 The day you go out is a market day<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> bad luck or unfortunate events tend to occur on important occasions or special days<\/p>\n

It’s believed that important occasions, such as the day of departure for a trip, are more susceptible to unexpected setbacks or mishaps, contrasting the anticipation of a special day with the reality of undesirable circumstances.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uac00\ub294 \ub0a0\uc774 \uc7a5\ub0a0\uc774\ub77c\uace0, \uacb0\ud63c\uc2dd \ub2f9\uc77c\uc5d0 \ube44\uac00 \uc654\uc5b4<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “The day you go out is a market day, and it’s raining on the day of the wedding.” (It’s raining on the day of the wedding. The day you go out is a market day, indeed!)<\/p>\n

16. \uc18c\ubb38\ub09c \uc794\uce58\uc5d0 \uba39\uc744 \uac83 \uc5c6\ub2e4 \u2014 There’s nothing to eat at a famous feast<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> rumors don’t match reality<\/p>\n

Imagine going to a hyped-up party, only to realize that it’s all just hype. This idiom refers to something that isn’t what it’s cracked up to be: you’ve heard great things about it, but the reality is different (and disappointing).\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc18c\ubb38\ub09c \uc794\uce58\uc5d0 \uba39\uc744 \uac83 \uc5c6\ub2e4\ub294 \ub9d0\uc774 \ub9de\uc558\uc5b4. \uc5b4\uc81c \uad11\uace0\ub97c \ubcf4\uace0 \uc0c8 \uac00\uac8c\uc5d0 \uac14\ub294\ub370 \ub9c9\uc0c1 \uc774\uc05c \uc637\ub4e4\uc774 \ud558\ub098\ub3c4 \uc5c6\ub354\ub77c.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

They were right about there being nothing to eat at a famous feast. I went to a new store yesterday after seeing the ad, but the (advertised) clothes weren’t pretty at all.<\/p>\n

17. \uc950\uad6c\uba4d\uc5d0\ub3c4 \ubcd5 \ub4e4 \ub0a0 \uc788\ub2e4 \u2014 Even a mouse hole gets sunlight<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> there’s always a silver lining in every situation<\/p>\n

Like much of the world, Korean culture attributes positive qualities to sunlight. If it’s able to reach a humble mouse hole, then by the same token, any negative or potentially negative outcome has a good side.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc870\uae08\ub9cc \ub354 \ucc38\uc544. \uc950\uad6c\uba4d\uc5d0\ub3c4 \ubcd5 \ub4e4 \ub0a0\uc774 \uc788\ub2e4\uace0 \ud558\uc796\uc544. <\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Hang in there. They say even a mouse hole gets sunlight.<\/p>\n

18. \ubcbc\ub77d\uce58\uae30 \u2014 Lightning-fast study<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> cramming just before an exam or test<\/p>\n

Just as lightning flashes in the blink of an eye, lightning-fast study allows you to cram a semester’s worth of lessons into one night. (Or at least, that’s what many Korean students hope.)<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub098 \ub0b4\uc77c \uc2dc\ud5d8\uc778\ub370 \uacf5\ubd80 \ud558\ub098\ub3c4 \uc548 \ud588\uc5b4. \uc624\ub298 \ubcbc\ub77d\uce58\uae30 \ud574\uc57c \ud574<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

I have a test tomorrow and haven’t studied at all. I need to do lightning-fast study.<\/p>\n

19. \ub3c4\ud1a0\ub9ac \ud0a4\uc7ac\uae30 \u2014 Lit: “Acorn Stomping”<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> not much of a difference<\/p>\n

When there’s not much difference between two options, what’s the point of fighting over them?\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc81c\ubc1c \ub204\uac00 \ub354 \ud0a4\uac00 \ud070\uc9c0 \uc2f8\uc6b0\uc9c0 \ub9c8. \uadf8\uac74 \ub3c4\ud1a0\ub9ac \ud0a4\uc7ac\uae30\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “Please don’t fight over who’s taller. There’s not much difference.” (“Please don’t fight over who’s taller. You guys are basically the same height.”)<\/p>\n

20. \uc544\ub294 \uae38\ub3c4 \ubb3c\uc5b4 \uac00\ub77c \u2014 Ask for directions even on a familiar road<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> it’s better to seek advice even in familiar situations<\/p>\n

Ever heard the expression that you need to have a “beginner’s mindset”? No matter how much you think you know about something, you’ll always have gaps in your knowledge or experience that can only be remedied by (humbly) asking for help from others who know more than you.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc77c\uc744 \uc798\ud55c\ub2e4\uace0 \uc0dd\uac01\ud558\uc9c0 \ub9d0\uace0 \uc5b8\uc81c\ub098 \uc544\ub294 \uae38\ub3c4 \ubb3c\uc5b4 \uac00\uc57c\uc9c0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Don’t think you’re good at everything; always ask for directions, even on a familiar road.<\/p>\n

21. \uacc4\ub780\uc73c\ub85c \ubc14\uc704\uce58\uae30 \u2014 Hitting a rock with an egg<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> an unwinnable or impossible challenge<\/p>\n

To hit a rock with an egg is to do something foolish that results in a huge loss. It can also be used to describe anything that seems impossible or reckless.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc774\uc81c \uadf8\ub9cc \ud574. \uadf8\uac74 \uacc4\ub780\uc73c\ub85c \ubc14\uc704\uce58\uae30\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Stop it, that’s hitting a rock with an egg.<\/p>\n

22. \ubcbc\ub294 \uc775\uc744\uc218\ub85d \uace0\uac1c \uc219\uc778\ub2e4 \u2014 As the rice ripens, the head bows<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> the more successful one is, the more humble they should be<\/p>\n

When rice grains grow to their full size, they’ll naturally succumb to the laws of gravity. Otherwise, their stems will break.<\/p>\n

It’s the same with successful people: if they forget to give thanks to those who’ve helped them get where they are, it’ll come back to bite them eventually.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8\ub9cc \uc790\ub791\ud574. \ubcbc\ub294 \uc775\uc744 \uc218\ub85d \uace0\uac1c\ub97c \uc219\uc774\ub294 \ubc95\uc774\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Stop bragging. As the rice ripens, the head bows.<\/p>\n

23. \uac00\ub294 \ub9d0\uc774 \uace0\uc640\uc57c \uc624\ub294 \ub9d0\uc774 \uacf1\ub2e4 \u2014 A good word spoken goes well, and a good word heard is beautiful<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> speaking kind and positive words leads to pleasant conversations and relationships<\/p>\n

I don’t think this one needs further explanation, but it bears repeating. If you want to have good relationships with people in general, be positive in your communications with them as much as possible.<\/p>\n

If you have nothing good to say, you can either not say it or say it in a tactful way that’s considerate and respectful of the other person’s feelings.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uce5c\uad6c\uc5d0 \ub300\ud574 \uc5b8\uc81c\ub098 \uce6d\ucc2c\uc758 \ub9d0\uc744 \ud574 \uc8fc\ub294 \uac8c \uc911\uc694\ud574. \uac00\ub294 \ub9d0\uc774 \uace0\uc640\uc57c \uc624\ub294 \ub9d0\uc774 \uace0\uc6b0\ub2c8\uae4c<\/strong><\/p>\n

It’s important to always speak words of praise about your friends. A good word spoken goes well, and a good word heard is beautiful.<\/p>\n

24. \uacf5\uc790 \uc55e\uc5d0\uc11c \ubb38\uc790 \uc4f4\ub2e4 \u2014 Writing Chinese characters in front of Confucius<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> feeling inadequate in the presence of an expert or highly knowledgeable person<\/p>\n

Like many countries that came into close contact with Chinese culture, Korea is no stranger to Confucius (\uacf5\uc790). Being the revered figure that he is, it’s no surprise that he’s associated with refined activities like calligraphy.<\/p>\n

So when you try to explain your knowledge of a subject in front of an expert on that subject, it can feel like doing calligraphy in front of \uacf5\uc790 himself!\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc804\ubb38\uac00 \uc55e\uc5d0\uc11c \ub0b4 \uc0dd\uac01\uc744 \uc598\uae30\ud558\ub824\ub2c8\uae4c, \uacf5\uc790 \uc55e\uc5d0\uc11c \ubb38\uc790 \uc4f0\ub294 \uae30\ubd84\uc774\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

When I try to express my thoughts in front of an expert, it feels like writing Chinese characters in front of Confucius.<\/p>\n

25. \uafe9 \uba39\uace0 \uc54c \uba39\uae30 \u2014 Eating both the pheasant and its eggs<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> to have the best of both worlds; to gain benefits from multiple sources<\/p>\n

Owing to how beautiful pheasants are, they’ve become associated with positive qualities in Korean culture. If you somehow eat a pheasant and its eggs, it’s like killing two birds with one stone (pun intended) when it comes to getting good fortune.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc5ec\ud589\ud560 \ub54c \ub3c8\ub3c4 \ubaa8\uc73c\uace0 \uacbd\ud5d8\ub3c4 \uc313\uc744 \uc218 \uc788\uc73c\uba74 \uafe9 \uba39\uace0 \uc54c \uba39\ub294 \uac70\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

When you can save money and accumulate experiences while traveling, you’re eating both the pheasant and its eggs.<\/p>\n

26. \uadc0\uc2e0\ub3c4 \ubaa8\ub978\ub2e4 \u2014 Even ghosts don’t know<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> an expression used when nobody has any idea about something<\/p>\n

You’d expect ghosts to be more knowledgeable about the world than any living person, seeing as they have plenty of time to roam the earth. So if even ghosts don’t know something, how can\u00a0you<\/em> know that something?<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc774 \ubb38\uc81c\uc5d0 \ub300\ud574 \uc544\ubb34\ub3c4 \ubaa8\ub974\ub294 \uac70 \uac19\uc544. \uadc0\uc2e0\ub3c4 \ubaa8\ub978\ub2e4\ub2c8\uae4c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

It seems like nobody knows the answer to this problem. Even ghosts don’t know.<\/p>\n

27. \uae08\uac15\uc0b0\ub3c4 \uc2dd\ud6c4\uacbd \u2014 Even Geumgang Mountain looks ordinary when you’re hungry<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> it’s easier to appreciate beautiful things on a full stomach<\/p>\n

Geumgang Mountain (\uae08\uac15\uc0b0) is one of Korea’s most famous mountains<\/a>. It’s a magnificent sight when you’re able to afford basic things like meals. But if you’re starving and only thinking about food, you’re not really in the headspace to stop and see the sights no matter how beautiful<\/a> they may be.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub77c\uba74 \uba39\uc73c\ub7ec \uac00\uc790. \uae08\uac15\uc0b0\ub3c4 \uc2dd\ud6c4\uacbd\uc774\uc796\uc544<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Let’s have ramyeon. Even Geumgang Mountain looks ordinary when you’re hungry.<\/p>\n

28. \ub0a8\uc758 \ub5a1\uc774 \ub354 \ucee4 \ubcf4\uc778\ub2e4 \u2014 Other people’s rice cakes look bigger<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> other people’s belongings or circumstances can seem more appealing or desirable than one’s own<\/p>\n

You could say this is the Korean equivalent of “the grass is greener on the other side.” When you see people posting picturesque photos of their vacation on social media, you can’t help but think that their lives are better than yours (even though those photos probably don’t show the full picture of their lives).\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub124 \ud53c\uc790\uac00 \ub0b4 \uac83\ubcf4\ub2e4 \ub354 \ud070 \uac83 \uac19\uc544. \/ \uc544\ub2c8\uc57c, \ub611\uac19\uc544. \uc6d0\ub798 \ub0a8\uc758 \ub5a1\uc774 \ub354 \ucee4 \ubcf4\uc774\uc796\uc544<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “I think your pizza is bigger than mine. \/ No, it’s the same. Other people\u2019s rice cakes look bigger.” (“I think your pizza is bigger than mine. \/ No, it’s the same size. It’s just that mine looks bigger from your perspective.”)<\/p>\n

29. \ubc14\ub298 \ub3c4\ub451\uc774 \uc18c\ub3c4\ub451 \ub41c\ub2e4 \u2014 A needle thief becomes a cow thief<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> starting with small wrongdoings can lead to more serious offenses<\/p>\n

This Korean idiom emphasizes the importance of being aware of the consequences of your actions. If doing small things like stealing needles doesn’t faze you, what’s to stop you from escalating to bigger crimes like stealing cows?<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc544\ubb34\ub9ac \uc791\uc740 \uac70\ub77c\ub3c4 \ub3c4\ub451\uc9c8\ud558\uba74 \uc548 \ub3fc. \ubc14\ub298 \ub3c4\ub451\uc774 \uc18c\ub3c4\ub451 \ub3fc!<\/strong><\/p>\n

Don’t steal anything, no matter how small. A needle thief becomes a cow thief!<\/p>\n

30. \uc124\uc0c1\uac00\uc0c1 \u2014 The unexpected on top of the unexpected<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> one unexpected situation or event occurring after another<\/p>\n

This is one of the more straightforward Korean expressions. Life isn’t always predictable and it’s possible for one unexpected event to come after another (or a series of events).\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc624\ub298 \uc544\uce68\uc5d0 \ud578\ub4dc\ud3f0\uc744 \uc783\uc5b4\ubc84\ub838\ub294\ub370, \uc124\uc0c1\uac00\uc0c1\uc73c\ub85c, \uc624\ud6c4\uc5d0 \uc9c0\uac11\ub3c4 \uc783\uc5b4\ubc84\ub838\uc5b4<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “I lost my phone this morning, and to make matters worse, I lost my wallet this afternoon.” (“I lost my phone this morning and my wallet this afternoon. It’s the unexpected on top of the unexpected!”)<\/p>\n

31. \uc218\ubc15 \uac89\ud565\uae30 \u2014 Licking the surface of a watermelon<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> superficially experiencing something without delving deeper or fully understanding it<\/p>\n

Watermelons are pretty hefty plants, so it’d be a waste to simply lick and leave them at that.<\/p>\n

In the same way, if you’re engaging in something (like reading a random article about Korean culture), it might be a good idea to really put yourself into it.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc218\ubc15 \uac89\ud565\uae30\uc2dd\uc73c\ub85c \uacf5\ubd80\ud558\uba74 \uc548 \ub3fc<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

You can’t study the way you lick the surface of a watermelon.<\/p>\n

32. \uafe9 \ub300\uc2e0 \ub2ed \u2014 A chicken instead of a pheasant<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> taking the next best thing<\/p>\n

When you can’t have a pheasant, get a chicken (if it’s available). You can’t always have the best thing, but maybe the next best thing will do!<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc6b0\ub9ac\uac00 \uc774\ubc88\uc5d0 \ud574\uc678 \uc5ec\ud589 \ubabb \uac00\uba74, \uac00\uae4c\uc6b4 \ubc14\ub2f7\uac00\ub77c\ub3c4 \uac00\uc790. \uafe9\ub300\uc2e0 \ub2ed\uc73c\ub85c<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n

Literally: “If we don’t get to travel abroad this time, let\u2019s go to the nearest beach. It’s a chicken, instead of a pheasant.” (“If we don’t get to travel abroad this time, let\u2019s go to the nearest beach. It’s the next best thing.”)<\/p>\n

33. \ud638\ub791\uc774\ub3c4 \uc81c \ub9d0 \ud558\uba74 \uc628\ub2e4 \u2014 Even a tiger comes when you mention it<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> speak of the devil<\/p>\n

Tigers are a revered cultural symbol<\/a> in Korea to this day. It’s such a compelling figure that if you even talk about it (or anything that can be on the same level of importance as a tiger), it will come.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ubc29\uae08 \ub124 \uc774\uc57c\uae30 \ud558\uace0 \uc788\uc5c8\ub294\ub370. \ud638\ub791\uc774\ub3c4 \uc81c \ub9d0 \ud558\uba74 \uc624\ub294\uad6c\ub098<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

We were just talking about you. Even a tiger comes when you mention it.<\/p>\n

34. \ud638\ub791\uc774\uc5d0\uac8c \ubb3c\ub824\uac00\ub3c4 \uc815\uc2e0\ub9cc \ucc28\ub9ac\uba74 \uc0b0\ub2e4 \u2014 Even if bitten by a tiger, you’ll survive if you regain your composure<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> to overcome a dangerous situation by staying calm and composed<\/p>\n

This is another tiger-related idiom that paints quite the picture. I doubt anyone can stay calm if they’re bitten by a tiger (which has one of the strongest bites of any big cat<\/a>), but maintaining your presence of mind certainly helps whenever you’re in a dire situation.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uce68\ucc29\ud574. \uc9c0\uae08 \ubc14\ub85c \uacbd\ucc30\uc5d0 \uc2e0\uace0\ud558\uba74 \ub3fc. \ud638\ub791\uc774\uc5d0\uac8c \ubb3c\ub824 \uac00\ub3c4 \uc815\uc2e0\ub9cc \ucc28\ub9ac\uba74 \uc0b4\uc544<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Stay calm and call the police right now. Even if bitten by a tiger, you\u2019ll survive if you regain your composure.<\/p>\n

35. \uace0\uc0dd \ub05d\uc5d0 \ub099\uc774 \uc628\ub2e4 \u2014 After hardship comes happiness<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> good things come after enduring difficult times or suffering<\/p>\n

This is one of the more optimistic Korean sayings. Even if it feels like your hardships are never-ending, there will always be light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ud798\ub0b4\uc138\uc694. \uace0\uc0dd \ub05d\uc5d0 \ub099\uc774 \uc628\ub2e4\ub294 \ub9d0\uc774 \uc788\uc796\uc544\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Stay strong. There’s a saying that happiness comes at the end of hardship.<\/p>\n

36. \uc18c \uc783\uace0 \uc678\uc591\uac04 \uace0\uce5c\ub2e4 \u2014 Fix the cowshed after losing the cow<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> there’s no point in crying over spilled milk.<\/p>\n

Most of the time, when something happens, there’s not much you can do about it. If it can be fixed, then you should fix it; otherwise, best to accept what happened and move on.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc2dc\ud5d8 \ub2e4 \ub05d\ub098\uace0 \uacf5\ubd80\ud558\ub294 \uac83\uc740 \uc18c \uc783\uace0 \uc678\uc591\uac04 \uace0\uce58\ub294 \uac70\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Studying after the exam is over is like fixing the cowshed after losing the cow.<\/p>\n

37. \uc190\ubc1c\uc774 \uc624\uadf8\ub77c\ub4e0\ub2e4 \u2014 Hands and feet curl up<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> feeling extremely embarrassed or humiliated<\/p>\n

When you’re so embarrassed that you want to cover yourself with your hands and feet, you must’ve been in quite an awkward situation!<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8\ub294 \uc790\uc2e0\uc774 \ud55c \ub9d0 \ub54c\ubb38\uc5d0 \ucc3d\ud53c\ud574\uc11c \uc190\ubc1c\uc774 \uc624\uadf8\ub77c\ub4e4\uc5c8\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

He was so embarrassed by what he’d said that his hands and feet curled up.<\/p>\n

38. \ud2f0\ub04c \ubaa8\uc544 \ud0dc\uc0b0 \u2014 Accumulating dust forms a mountain<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> small efforts or contributions, when accumulated, can lead to significant results<\/p>\n

This idiom hammers home the idea that small things can turn into big things, so always tread with care in everything you do.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

100\uc6d0\uc774\ub77c\ub3c4 \ud568\ubd80\ub85c \uc4f0\uc9c0 \ub9c8. \ud2f0\ub04c\ubaa8\uc544 \ud0dc\uc0b0\uc774\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t spend even 100 won without thinking. Accumulating dust forms a mountain.<\/p>\n

39. \uace0\uc591\uc774\uc5d0\uac8c \uc0dd\uc120\uc744 \ub9e1\uae34\ub2e4 \u2014 Entrusting fish to a cat<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> putting something in the wrong hands or trusting someone who is likely to misuse or mishandle it<\/p>\n

This is the Korean equivalent of “putting the fox in the hen house.” Whenever you want to get something done, make sure the person you’re entrusting that task to actually knows what they’re doing and has the best intentions.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8 \uc0ac\ub78c\ud55c\ud14c \ub124 \uc9c0\uac11\uc744 \ub9e1\uae30\ub2e4\ub2c8, \uadf8\uac74 \uace0\uc591\uc774\uc5d0\uac8c \uc0dd\uc120\uc744 \ub9e1\uae30\ub294 \uac70\uc57c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Leaving your wallet with him is like leaving fish with the cat.<\/p>\n

40. \uc624\ub974\uc9c0 \ubabb\ud560 \ub098\ubb34\ub294 \uccd0\ub2e4\ubcf4\uc9c0\ub3c4 \ub9c8\ub77c \u2014 Don’t stare at a tree you can’t climb<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> don’t dwell on or pursue something beyond your reach<\/p>\n

This Korean idiom isn’t necessarily being pessimistic. While aiming for the stars is great, you’d probably be better off putting your energy into something more realistic and achievable.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8 \uc5ec\uc790\ub294 \uc774\ubbf8 \ub0a8\uc790 \uce5c\uad6c\uac00 \uc788\uc5b4. \uc624\ub974\uc9c0 \ubabb\ud560 \ub098\ubb34\ub294 \uccd0\ub2e4\ubcf4\uc9c0\ub3c4 \ub9c8<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “She already has a boyfriend. Don’t stare at a tree you can’t climb.” (“She already has a boyfriend. Don’t even think about courting her.”)<\/p>\n

41. \ud558\ub298\uc758 \ubcc4 \ub530\uae30 \u2014 Trying to catch the stars in the sky<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> pursuing something that is extremely difficult or impossible to achieve<\/p>\n

Considering that the nearest star is approximately 24.85 trillion miles<\/a> away, trying to catch them can be likened to an impossible endeavor indeed!<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8 \ud68c\uc0ac\uc5d0 \ucde8\uc9c1\ud558\ub294 \uac83\uc740 \ud558\ub298\uc758 \ubcc4 \ub530\uae30\uc608\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Getting a job at that (prestigious) company is like trying to catch the stars.<\/p>\n

42. \ub9d0 \ud55c \ub9c8\ub514\uc5d0 \ucc9c\ub0e5 \ube5a\uc744 \uac1a\ub294\ub2e4 \u2014 Paying off a debt of a thousand nyang with one word<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> resolving a conflict or settling a debt through communication or negotiation<\/p>\n

You’d think “nyang” (\ub0e5) is an ancient form of Korean currency<\/a>. In fact, it’s a Korean onomatopoeia for the sound of a cat\u2014i.e., their version of “meow.” If you’re skilled enough as an orator, you can make all your opponents seem like meowing cats!<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8 \ub0a8\uc790\uac00 \uc6b0\ub9ac \ubaa8\ub4e0 \uc758\uacac\uc5d0 \ubb34\uc870\uac74 \ubc18\ub300\ud574\uc694. \uadf8\ub7ec\ub2c8\uae4c \uc798 \uc880 \ub9d0\ud574 \ubcf4\uc138\uc694. \ub9d0 \ud55c\ub9c8\ub514\uc5d0 \ucc9c \ub0e5 \ube5a\ub3c4 \uac1a\ub294\ub2e4\uace0 \ud558\uc796\uc544\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Literally: “The guy disagrees with everything we say, so talk to him. Paying off a debt of a thousand nyang with one word.” (“We’d have to ramp up the way we communicate and negotiate with that guy, since he likes to disagree with everything we say.”)<\/p>\n

43. \uc5ce\ub4dc\ub824 \uc808 \ubc1b\uae30 \u2014 Twist someone’s arm<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> fish for compliments<\/p>\n

This idiom describes a situation in which a person gets a favor because they ask for it, even though the other person doesn’t want it.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc6b0\ub9ac \ub0a8\ud3b8\uc744 \uc870\ub974\uace0 \uc878\ub77c \uaca8\uc6b0 \uc0dd\uc77c \uc120\ubb3c \ubc1b\uc558\uc5b4\uc694. \uc5bb\ub4dc\ub824 \uc808 \ubc1b\uae30\uc600\uc5b4\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

I finally got my birthday present by twisting my husband’s arm a lot.\u00a0<\/p>\n

44. \ub4f1\uc794 \ubc11\uc774 \uc5b4\ub461\ub2e4 \u2014 The area under the lamp is dark<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> neglecting what is right under one’s nose<\/p>\n

You know those moments when you get stumped by a problem only to realize that the solution was right under your nose the whole time? That’s one of the things this idiom refers to. It also emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the little things as they might have a bigger role to play than you realize.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub0b4 \uc5f4\uc1e0\uac00 \ub0b4 \uc8fc\uba38\ub2c8 \uc548\uc5d0 \uc788\uc5c8\ub124. \uadf8\uac78 \ubaa8\ub974\uace0 \ud55c\ucc38 \ucc3e\uc558\uc5b4. \ub4f1\uc794 \ubc11\uc774 \uc5b4\ub450\uc6e0\uc796\uc544<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

My keys were in my pocket. I looked for them for a while without realizing it. The area under the lamp is dark (indeed).<\/span><\/p>\n

45. \ubc31\ubb38\uc774 \ubd88\uc5ec\uc77c\uacac \u2014 Seeing is better than hearing a hundred times<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> experiencing something firsthand is more valuable than hearing about it repeatedly<\/p>\n

Like Westerners, Koreans believe in the concept of “seeing is believing.” It’s one thing to talk about someone else’s experience and another to have actually experienced that something.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc800\ub294 \uadf8\ub4e4\uc758 \uc774\uc57c\uae30\ub97c \ubbff\uc9c0 \uc54a\uc544\uc694. \ubc31\ubb38\uc774 \ubd88\uc5ec\uc77c\uacac\uc774\uc5d0\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

I don’t believe their story. Seeing is better than hearing a hundred times.\u00a0<\/p>\n

46. \ub0ae\ub9d0\uc740 \uc0c8\uac00 \ub4e3\uace0 \ubc24\ub9d0\uc740 \uc950\uac00 \ub4e3\ub294\ub2e4 \u00a0\u2014 Birds hear daytime talk, and mice hear nighttime talk<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> secrets or private conversations are often overheard or revealed unexpectedly<\/p>\n

Never assume that your secrets are safe! As this saying suggests, birds can hear you during the day, while mice can hear you during the night.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ud56d\uc0c1 \ub9d0\uc870\uc2ec\ud574\uc57c \ud574. \ub0ae\ub9d0\uc740 \uc0c8\uac00 \ub4e3\uace0 \ubc24\ub9d0\uc740 \uc950\uac00 \ub4e4\uc5b4<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Always be careful what you say. Birds hear daytime talk and mice hear nighttime talk.<\/p>\n

47. \uc2dc\uc791\uc774 \ubc18\uc774\ub2e4 \u2014 The beginning is half the battle<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> starting something is often the most challenging part<\/p>\n

It’s one thing to say you’ll do something and another to actually do it. Pretty inspirational saying for people who tend to procrastinate!<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc774 \ud504\ub85c\uc81d\ud2b8\ub97c \uc2dc\uc791\ud574 \ubd05\uc2dc\ub2e4. \uc2dc\uc791\uc774 \ubc18\uc774\uc5d0\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Let’s start this project. The beginning is half the battle.\u00a0<\/p>\n

48. \ub3cc\ub2e4\ub9ac\ub3c4 \ub450\ub4e4\uaca8 \ubcf4\uace0 \uac74\ub108\ub77c \u2014 Even on a stone bridge, test it with your footsteps before crossing<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> being cautious and verifying things before taking action<\/p>\n

This idiom emphasizes the importance of caution and prudence. It suggests that you should carefully assess a situation before proceeding, even if it seems safe.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\ub3cc\ub2e4\ub9ac\ub3c4 \ub450\ub4e4\uaca8 \ubcf4\uace0 \uac74\ub108\uc57c \ud55c\ub2e4\ub294 \uac83\uc744 \uae30\uc5b5\ud574\uc57c \ud574\uc694<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

You should remember that even on a stone bridge, test it with your footsteps before crossing.<\/p>\n

49. \ucf69 \uc2ec\uc740 \ub370 \ucf69 \ub098\uace0 \ud325 \uc2ec\uc740 \ub370 \ud325 \ub09c\ub2e4 \u2014 Beans grow where beans are planted, and red beans grow where red beans are planted<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> actions have consequences, and similar actions yield similar results<\/p>\n

You could say this has roughly the same meaning as “insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” If you want something to change, it may be time to approach it from a different direction.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc870\uae08 \ubcc0\ud654\ub97c \uc8fc\uc790. \ucf69 \uc2ec\uc740 \ub370 \ucf69 \ub098\uace0 \ud325 \uc2ec\uc740 \ub370 \ud325 \ub098\ub2c8\uae4c<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Let’s switch things up. Beans grow where beans are planted, and red beans grow where red beans are planted.\u00a0<\/p>\n

50. \ube48 \uc218\ub808\uac00 \uc694\ub780\ud558\ub2e4 \u2014 An empty cart makes a lot of noise<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> those with little substance often boast the most<\/p>\n

According to this idiom, those who don’t have much in the way of accomplishments tend to be the loudest.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uadf8 \uc0ac\ub78c \ub108\ubb34 \ubbff\uc9c0 \ub9c8. \uc798 \ubaa8\ub974\ub294\ub370 \uc544\ub294 \uccb4\ud558\ub294 \uac70\uc57c. \ube48 \uc218\ub808\uac00 \uc694\ub780\ud558\uc796\uc544<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n

Don’t trust him too much. He doesn’t really know (what he’s talking about), he’s just pretending he does. They say an empty cart makes a lot of noise.<\/span><\/p>\n

51. \ube44 \uc628 \ub4a4\uc5d0 \ub545\uc774 \uad73\uc5b4\uc9c4\ub2e4 \u2014 The ground hardens after rain<\/h2>\n

Meaning:<\/strong> difficulties or challenges can lead to personal growth and resilience<\/p>\n

When it rains, it pours. And when it pours, you can wait it out until it’s over and the ground becomes safe to walk on again. Like many of the expressions listed so far, this one places a lot of emphasis on patience and determination.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\uc774\ubc88\uc5d4 \ube44\ub85d \uc2e4\ud328\ud588\uc9c0\ub9cc, \uc800\ub294 \ub2e4\uc74c\ubc88\uc5d4 \ub354 \uc798\ud560 \uc218 \uc788\uc744 \uac83 \uac19\uc544\uc694. \ube44 \uc628 \ub4a4\uc5d0 \ub545\uc774 \uad73\uc5b4\uc9c0\ub294 \uac83\ucc98\ub7fc\uc694<\/strong><\/p>\n

Although I failed this time, I think I’ll do better next time. The ground hardens after rain.\u00a0<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So that’s our list of 51 Korean idioms!<\/p>\n

Keep an ear out for them in TV shows and movies, or search for them on the language learning program FluentU<\/a> to hear them used in context.

FluentU<\/strong> takes authentic videos\u2014like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks\u2014and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.<\/p>\r\n

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